By Kannin Koehn, Guest Columnist
There is a major issue in our world today: gun-related incidents. You see them almost everywhere, almost every time you turn on your TV or phone.
Some people see the only solution to be legislation and bans, but is this the only solution? I personally believe that this is not the case.
I believe a large part of the issue could be solved with proper firearm safety education. Looking back in history, firearm safety was taught almost like a tradition between parents and their children. Before I first shot a gun, I had to attend a gun safety class, read the gun manual, read a safety booklet, learn the parts and watch range safety videos. Finally, after this lengthy process, I got to take it to the range and safely shoot it — only after learning to respect the responsibility that came along with it.
I believe the falling out of this tradition is partially to blame for the increase in gun-related incidents. This, as a result, has led to the push for “gun bans” and other legislative initiatives. I believe part of the solution would be to re-implement the teaching of firearm safety.
Government action has never been the sole solution to social issues; only society can truly solve these issues. That’s why they are called social issues. The use of safe storage devices such as trigger locks, bolt locks and gun safes alone can cut out a significant percentage of gun-related incidents. Imagine what would happen if we gave an in-depth lesson on gun safety. Let’s shoot for a better tomorrow with proper gun safety.
Kannin Koehn is the vice chairman of the Northwestern College Republicans Club. He also serves as Woods County chapter coordinator for the Oklahoma Second Amendment Association.